Books matching: literary thriller
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- #1
'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt is a suspenseful novel set in an exclusive university where a Classics study group decides to commit murder, reminiscent of Eleusinian mysteries. The story follows a group of eccentric and privileged college students who get entangled in a web of their own making, leading to chilling events and profound changes in their lives. The writing style is erudite, literary, and intriguing, with a focus on character development and relationships, creating an evocative and convincing setting.
Does such a thing as 'the fatal flaw,' that showy dark crack running down the middle of a life, exist outside literature? I used to think it didn't. Now I think it does. And I think that mine is this:... - #2
The Magus by John Fowles is a complex and mysterious novel set in Greece, following the story of Nicholas Urfe, a self-absorbed Englishman who takes a teaching position on a Greek island. Nicholas finds himself entangled in a series of mind games and deceit orchestrated by the eccentric millionaire Maurice Conchis. The plot twists and turns, blurring the lines between reality and illusion, questioning themes of freedom, power, knowledge, and love. The writing style is described as beautifully written, suspenseful, and engaging, with a mix of psychological mind games and supernatural events that keep the reader intrigued.
I was born in 1927, the only child of middle-class parents, both English, and themselves born in the grotesquely elongated shadow, which they never rose sufficiently above history to leave, of that mo... - #3
"Dark Places" by Gillian Flynn is a gripping thriller that follows Libby Day, the sole survivor of a family massacre. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives and timelines, delving into the dark and twisted events surrounding the murders. Flynn's writing style captivates readers with its suspenseful and haunting narrative, keeping them on the edge of their seats as they uncover the chilling truths hidden within the characters' pasts.
Ihave a meanness inside me, real as an organ. Slit me at my belly and it might slide out, meaty and dark, drop on the floor so you could stomp on it. It’s the Day blood. Something’s wrong with it. I w... - #4
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is a gothic mystery novel that revolves around the second Mrs. de Winter, who marries the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter and moves to his grand estate, Manderley. The shadow of Maxim's late wife, Rebecca, looms large over the household, with the housekeeper Mrs. Danvers and other characters adding to the mysterious and suspenseful atmosphere. The story is filled with plot twists, dark secrets, and a haunting sense of doom that keeps readers engaged until the shocking ending.
Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again. It seemed to me I stood by the iron gate leading to the drive, and for a while I could not enter, for the way was barred to me. There was a padlock and ... - #5
"The Club Dumas" by Arturo Perez-Reverte is an intellectual mystery that delves into the world of rare book collectors, thieves, and forgers. The plot follows Lucas Corso, a book collector hired to authenticate a rare chapter of The Three Musketeers and to locate two other copies of an occult book, The Nine Doors. As Corso delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding these books, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of secrets, codes, and ancient manuscripts. The writing style of the book is described as rich, dense, and historical, with intricate details and a mix of historical facts and literary interpretations that add depth to the narrative.
My name is Boris Balkan and I once translated The Charterhouse of Parma. Apart from that, I’ve edited a few books on the nineteenth-century popular novel, my reviews and articles appear in supplements... - #6
'The River' by Peter Heller is a suspenseful novel about two young friends on a wilderness canoe trip facing natural disasters and human frailties, leading to a tragic outcome. The plot is a slow-burn thriller set on the rivers of northern America, focusing on the characters' survival in the face of extreme pressure and strained relationships. The writing style is a mix of suspenseful, literary, and beautiful, with a focus on character development and atmospheric descriptions.
The two of them loved paddling in storm. With the spray deck sealing the canoe they felt safe as long as they did not broach sideways, and they struck out away from the shadows and sounds of shore. Th... - #7
'Case Histories' by Kate Atkinson follows the story of private detective Jackson Brodie as he investigates three cold cases that are more intriguing than the infidelity case he is initially hired for. The novel weaves together separate mysteries, each with its own set of characters and events, eventually converging in unexpected ways. Atkinson's writing style is described as unconventional, with alternating points of view and a non-linear timeline that keeps the reader engaged and surprised. The book delves into the complexities of family relationships, unresolved past traumas, and the personal struggles of the protagonist, Jackson Brodie.
How lucky were they? A heat wave in the middle of the school holidays, exactly where it belonged. Every morning the sun was up long before they were, making a mockery of the flimsy summer curtains tha... - #8
Descent by Tim Johnston is a gripping thriller that follows the Courtland family as they vacation in the Colorado mountains. The story centers around the disappearance of their daughter, Caitlin, during a run with her brother, Sean, which leads to a devastating chain of events. The narrative is told through multiple perspectives and time periods, capturing the family's emotional turmoil and the impact of the tragedy on each member. Johnston's writing style is praised for its lyrical descriptions and evocative storytelling, making the novel a suspenseful page-turner that delves into themes of loss, family dynamics, and survival in the face of tragedy.
He was up atfirst light. Earliest, frailest light of another day. Sitting on the edge of the bed hands to knees in bleak stillness, staring out the window as his life came back to him piece by piece. ... - #9
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn is a dark and disturbing psychological thriller that follows reporter Camille Preaker as she reluctantly returns to her hometown in Wind Gap, Missouri to investigate the murders of two young girls. The book delves into the small town's secrets, the complexities of family relationships, and Camille's own troubled past, including her struggles with self-harm. The narrative is intense, gripping, and filled with unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style in Sharp Objects is described as atmospheric, bleak, and engrossing, with excellent characterization that brings the dark and twisted psyches of the characters to life. Gillian Flynn's debut novel skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, family drama, and psychological suspense, creating a chilling story that explores the depths of human darkness and the impact of past traumas on present actions.
My sweater was new, stinging red and ugly. It was May 12 but the temperature had dipped to the forties, and after four days shivering in my shirtsleeves, I grabbed cover at a tag sale rather than dig ... "Foe" by Iain Reid is a psychological thriller with a sci-fi twist that revolves around the lives of Junior and Hen, a married couple living in isolation on a farm. The plot unfolds as Junior is unexpectedly chosen to participate in a space expedition, leaving Hen behind with the promise of a biomechanical duplicate to keep her company. The narrative explores themes of relationships, communication, and the unsettling consequences of being replaced, all set against a backdrop of eerie suspense and psychological tension.
The writing style of "Foe" is described as atmospheric, with short, punchy chapters that create a sense of unease and claustrophobia. The story is characterized by slow-building suspense, unexpected twists, and a narrative that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. Through the lens of a near-future setting, the novel delves into the internal lives of its characters, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human desires, relationships, and the complexities of perception.
Two headlights. I wake to the sight of them. Odd because of the distinct green tint. Not the usual white headlights you see around here. I spot them through the window, at the end of the lane. I must ...